how to prepare for a lifeguard course

Here's what you'll need to do to qualify for a lifeguarding course (you must be 15 years old to enroll):

• Swim 300 yards continuously to demonstrate your breath control. To complete this training you can either choose to front...
• Tread water without using your arms for 2 minutes; arms should be placed under armpits
• Complete a timed event on the lifeguarding course in 1...

Full Answer

What do you learn in a Lifeguard course?

Through our training you will learn all of the skills needed to become a professional lifeguard. From First Aid and CPR/AED training to rescue and teamwork skills, the Red Cross has designed a lifeguarding course that effectively combines both written testing skills and comprehension along with valuable hands-on training. Find a Class

What should I look for when applying for a lifeguard job?

However, if you already have a specific place in mind, you should check exactly what the job description and the day to day is – some have ended up signing up for a ‘lifeguard’ job only to find themselves cleaning more than lifeguarding. To make sure this does not happen to you, ask a lifeguard who is currently working there what their job entails!

How do I become a Red Cross lifeguard?

Find Classes Lifeguarding Courses and Prerequisites The American Red Cross lifeguard training and certification are imperative to the process of getting hired on as an official Red Cross lifeguard. Our detailed training includes both testing of hands-on skills as well as comprehension on written tests.

Do you have to pay to be a lifeguard at University?

There is usually a free membership to a gym, club or at least a pool. There is usually paid training monthly. Pools are never usually open at very early in the morning or very late at night. You can work as a lifeguard at university and it is common to be able to work at home and at uni.

How do you prepare for a lifeguard test?

Preparing for Lifeguard ClassesSwim 300 yards continuously to demonstrate your breath control. ... Tread water without using your arms for 2 minutes; arms should be placed under armpits.Complete a timed event on the lifeguarding course in 1 minute and 40 seconds.Swim 20 yards with the starting point being in the pool.More items...

How should I prepare for my first day lifeguarding?

Prepare for your first day as a lifeguardLifeguard uniform.Sunglasses to block water's glare.Lifeguard whistle.Sunblock.Water bottle(s) to stay hydrated in the heat.Snacks and/or meals.A towel.CPR Mask.More items...

Is becoming a lifeguard hard?

Lifeguard training is underrated in how difficult it is. Of course, you will need to gain a lifeguarding qualification –the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ). The truth is, the test you need to pass to gain your NPLQ is intensive. It requires specialist training in order to be successful.

What do you wear to a lifeguard course?

What should I bring to class? A swimsuit (women: modest one piece is recommended, men: trunks or jammers), a towel, goggles are recommended, pen or pencil, notebook for notes, water bottle, and a lunch/snacks. All participants will receive a loan book and pocket mask the first day of the course.

What do you wear to a lifeguard shift?

Here's what she recommends readers wear when applying for a lifeguard position: "So, for a female, I recommend wearing a simple summer dress or skirt (not too short) and a blouse or good looking T-shirt. Save the flip flops for the pool after you get the job. Instead, wear a ballet flat or another sandal.

What are lifeguards tips?

Here you will find some very helpful advice from our Lifeguards on beach safety, to ensure you enjoy your visit to the beach and stay safe!Swim Between the Red and Yellow Flags. ... Read the Safety Signs. ... Ask a Lifeguard for Safety Advice. ... Swim with a Friend. ... If You Need Help, Stay Calm and Attract Attention.

Is it worth being a lifeguard?

If you're looking for a job with an opportunity to learn, take ownership in your work, and assume more responsibility as you go, lifeguarding is an excellent fit. Remember: lifeguards protect the safety and well-being of anyone who comes to the pool. Few summer jobs can top that in responsibility.

Can lifeguards have piercings?

o Hoop earrings must be less than ½” in size. o No more than 2 earrings are allowed per ear. should be 1/8 inch in diameter or smaller. o All other visible body piercings are not allowed.

Can you make a living off being a lifeguard?

Other lifeguards get salaries ranging from $60,000 to $100,000, plus benefits valued at $42,000 to $62,000 per person, according to city figures.

Do lifeguards have to be shirtless?

Essential Lifeguard Clothing Basic apparel for lifeguards consists of an approved lifeguard swimsuit for females and swim trunks or Bermuda shorts for males.

Can you wear shoes while lifeguarding?

Footwear. The right lifeguard footwear can make a big difference for both your comfort and your effectiveness. While tennis shoes are cozy and protective, they offer no waterproofing and may slow you down during a rescue. You'll most often want to wear a pair of flip-flops, which are easy to kick off whenever needed.

How do you pass a lifeguard pretest?

How to pass the pretest:You must be 15 years old on or before the final scheduled session of your course.Swim 300 yards continuously demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing. ... Tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs. ... Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds.

How long does it take to become a lifeguard?

The total time commitment for the Lifeguarding course is 25 hours / 20 minutes.

How old do you have to be to be a lifeguard?

There are two important elements prior to becoming a lifeguard. The American Red Cross requires that you must be at least 15 years old and pass course specific swimming requirements prior to starting training.

How old do you have to be to be a lifeguard?

Prerequisites for lifeguard training include: Students must be at least 15 years old by the last day of class. Students must pass a pre-course swimming skills test prior to taking lifeguarding courses.

Do you have to pass a swimming test to become a lifeguard?

Students must pass a pre-course swimming skills test prior to taking lifeguarding courses. The American Red Cross offers the following course options for Lifeguard training: Lifeguarding: Full Course –. This option is for those training for the first time or for those whose certifications have expired.

How many days of training is required for a lifeguard?

lifeguard training Course details: Intensive: 5 days of one week 9-5 with the test on the final day. Weekly: 9-5 once a week, usually Sunday, with a test on the last day. Picking a course type is personal and dependent on how you learn and your schedule. It is advisable, however, to do the intensive.

What to bring to lifeguard training?

What to bring to the lifeguard training course: Change of clothes. Towel, two if you can afford the space. Swimming trunks (preferably skin-tight ones and worn under clothing at the start of the day) Spare clothes to jump in with again the tighter the better as there will be less drag.

What is the NPLQ for lifeguards?

Lifeguard training is underrated in how difficult it is. Of course, you will need to gain a lifeguarding qualification –the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ). The truth is, the test you need to pass to gain your NPLQ is intensive. It requires specialist training in order to be successful.

What are the three sections of a lifeguard test?

It requires specialist training in order to be successful. You’ll find it’s devised into three sections: First Aid training, a pool test, and a verbal test. All three assess different skills and test the potential lifeguard in their physical and mental capabilities.

What are the downsides of being a lifeguard?

Downsides to becoming a lifeguard is that the training required to become one takes time and money.

How long is a 5 day course?

Often, the choice comes down to doing an intensive 5-day course or a weekly course lasting 5 weeks. All courses should assess and either pass or fail you immediately on the final day. However, some official courses may differ entirely.

How long does it take to swim in a pool?

Swim 50 meters, two lengths of an average pool, in 60 seconds.

How long does it take to become a lifeguard?

Lifeguard training can take you up to 30 hours to complete, and you must attend all classes and demonstrate you can perform the skills taught efficiently and without supervision. Some training courses allow you a few attempts to complete the scenarios, and the instructor will offer feedback after each one.

What certifications do you need to be a lifeguard?

To become a lifeguard, you must have current CPR, First Aid, and AED certification . Most lifeguard certification programs include these in their training, but not all do. If these certifications are not included, you will be responsible for obtaining them on your own before getting a job as a lifeguard.

What organizations offer lifeguard certification?

Organizations such as the American Red Cross, local YMCAs, Ellis and Associates, and International Surf Lifesaving Association offer different lifeguarding certification programs.

Why is lifeguarding a good summer job?

Lifeguarding is the perfect summer job because you can spend your summer working outdoors, making new friends, and earning money. Though sometimes the job may seem complicated, you are sitting in a chair observing the pool most of the time. This means you get paid to suntan and get plenty of fresh air.

How old do you have to be to be a lifeguard?

Essentially, to become a lifeguard, you must be at least 15 years old and pass the swim test before signing up for a certification course. After you are a certified lifeguard, other requirements will depend greatly upon where you get a job and what their requirements are.

How long does it take to swim 550 yards?

Swim 550 yards in open waters in less than 10 minutes. Run one mile in less than 8 minutes and 30 seconds. Perfect open water swimmer surveillance techniques. Learn how to use equipment, such as paddle boards, masks, fins, snorkels, kayaks, and all-terrain vehicles.

How long to run water without hands?

Treading water without your hands for two minutes. Complete a timed mock rescue involving retrieving a 10-pound brick from the bottom of the pool and exiting the water with it. Complete CPR, first aid, and AED certifications.

How long does it take to become a lifeguard?

Generally, lifeguard training takes 25 hours to complete with weekend, accelerated, and written online training options available. Over the course of training, you’ll become comfortable with: – Preventing, recognizing, and responding to emergencies in the water. – Providing care for breathing and cardiac injury. – Applying proper first-aid.

Why do you need a lifeguard?

Whether it’s a summer outdoor position or working indoors during the colder months, being a lifeguard offers flexibility, plenty of time poolside, and valuable skills. You’ll combine your love of swimming with the benefits of altruism by keeping the pool safe for all.

How to get a Red Cross certificate?

To demonstrate your understanding you’ll need to attend all classes , pass a written test ( with a score of 80% or better), and successfully complete 3 skill scenarios. After you’ve passed — with flying colors– you ’ll receive an American Red Cross certificate. Valid for two years, you can show off your lifesaving abilities and apply to any lifeguard position with confidence.

How many laps do you need to swim to pass the brick test?

The required swim test will check your swimming abilities. To complete this test you’ll need to: Swim 300 yards (or about 6 laps) Tread water (for 2 minutes, legs only) Complete a timed event ( see how to pass the brick test)

How long do you have to tread water to swim?

You are also required to tread water for two minutes without the use of your hands. Don’t worry; this isn’t as terrifying as it sounds. Just practice! Once you’ve’ve demonstrated you can swim, you will be required to complete the lifeguard brick test. This can be tricky.

How to swim with a brick?

Here’s what you have to do:#N#You have 1 minute and 40 seconds to complete the following: 1 Swim 20 yards (without goggles) and locate the brick submerged 7-10 feet deep in the pool. 2 Surface dive (from the water) either feet or head first and retrieve the brick. 3 Swim with the brick back to your starting location holding it throughout the swim. The brick cannot be submerged, and two hands must be holding the brick throughout the swim. 4 Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.

Can you register as a lifeguard online?

Many lifeguard companies offer online registration, but you can also reserve a spot over the phone. This part is easy and not stressful at all! Just provide your information, make sure you understand the costs and you will be ready to begin training. Some companies offer discounted training to employees.